As a man with many responsibilities, (husband, father, business leader, local church, small group leader, etc.) it is easy to sometimes feel overwhelmed with everything that is on my plate.
There never seems to be enough time to meet all the demands placed on me, and very rarely seems to be any time for me to do things other than fulfill my various responsibilities.
Add on top of that all the crises and problems in our world today, there is plenty to worry about.
So, I have been thinking a lot lately about how important it is to truly take in the precious moments of each day. It hit me about a month ago one night when I was working with some 10 year old boys as part of my son's baseball team.
We were conducting indoor hitting practice, and candidly I had a lot on my mind from the day. But as I was bending over picking up baseballs to throw them back into the bucket, I felt the Lord speak to me. I am not saying I heard His audible voice, but it seemed close to that. I felt a very clear presence speaking to me saying "Ray, you are doing EXACTLY what I want you doing, be present in the moment, take it all in, love these boys, and show them my love!"
Since that night, I have diligently focused on really being present in the moment. I have noticed a totally different mindset in my business meetings. Rather than thinking about all that I have on my "to do" list, I am doing a much better job of engaging myself in each conversation. I have been truly listening to what the other person is saying. I am asking much better questions. And I find myself learning from each person.
In my family, I am enjoying the time with my bride and 3 children in new ways. I am taking it all in, realizing how much of a blessing each moment I have with my children truly is.
I am reminded of the following truth:
When we live in the past- it is easy to be consumed with guilt. Guilt over mistakes made or things we should or should not have done.
When we live in the future- it is easy to be overtakent with fear. Fear of the unknown, or fear of what is to come.
It is only living in the moment (being present) that we can truly enjoy life and experience the peace and presence of God's spirit in our lives.
So take in each moment- and BE PRESENT!